Page:American Boy's Life of William McKinley.djvu/332

284 eminence rests in the victories of peace, not those of war."

"Our earnest prayer is that God will graciously vouchsafe prosperity, happiness, and peace to all our neighbors, and like blessings to all the peoples and powers of earth."

Alas! although no one knew it, this was to be his last public address. It was full of hope and confidence, and gave a large promise for the future. It should be read in its entirety by everybody, for it shows the real man as few other public addresses have done.

It was arranged that the President should hold a public reception on the following day on the fair grounds, and the Temple of Music was chosen for that purpose. This was a handsome structure, fronting upon an artificial lake, with fountains and beautiful statuary. The Temple was capable of holding several thousand people, and had at one end a platform for vocal and instrumental concerts, and at one side a large church organ, upon which recitals were